How to Become a Port Captain

A port captain is in charge of the shipboard and the equipment on the scientific deck. The role is advisory as well as hands on. Often the port captain will make recommendations to the Ship Operation Manager regarding repairs and modifications for equipment. The cost of operating a ship at port falls under the responsibilities of the port captain. Requisition management is part of a port captain's budgetary duty.

Instructions

1. Find a United States Coast Guard licensing facility in your area and find out when the next exam is.

2. Study for the United States Coast Guard license exam online, with a CD-Rom or with a manual. The exam is long so expect to be at the exam site for most of the day.

3. Search for a job as an apprentice on a ship after you get a copy of your new license. Not all ships have the same duties-pick one that is appropriate for your interests.

4. Train on the ship as a crewman and then graduate to first mate studies. A port captain needs to learn about scientific equipment and budgets-remember this as you train to be a captain.

5. Decide if you are cut out to be responsible for the crew, the project and the ship before you waste time in training. Not everyone is cut out to be a captain-it takes sacrifice.

6. Learn all areas of scientific exploration, especially the equipment needs. Since maintaining a budget will be your responsibility, it will benefit you to learn how to make small equipment repairs.

Tips & Warnings

• Become a jack of all trades-this will make you invaluable.

• Know your limitations before they are tested.